Cops: A DUI is a bad start to the New Year

As New Year’s Eve approaches, state and local authorities are warning motorists once again not to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, noting that several services are available to get partygoers home safely.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Department, are stepping up patrols and DUI checkpoints all over the county through New Year’s Day. People suspected of driving while impaired will likely be jailed and could have their licenses suspended.

They can expect to pay higher insurance fees as well as more fines, fees and other expenses that could exceed $10,000.

“Celebrate the festivities with your family, not the in the jail or hospital,” Sheriff Bill Gore said in a statement. “Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a crime. You will be arrested.”

California drivers have violated state law if they get behind the wheel with a blood-alcohol content measuring 0.08 percent or more.

The Sheriff’s Department — one of 15 agencies participating in a newly formed DUI enforcement task force — will have DUI patrols after the Chargers/Raiders game Sunday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and Monday in San Marcos, Vista, Poway, Encinitas, Lemon Grove, Imperial Beach and Santee.

San Diego police will conduct checkpoints at various undisclosed locations within the city limits from 9 p.m. Monday to 3:30 a.m. Tuesday. The California Highway Patrol’s maximum enforcement period, which began Friday, extends through Tuesday.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 774 people were killed in California in 2011 as a result of alcohol-related vehicle crashes, which is 28 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state last year.

Seventy-one more people were killed in DUI crashes in California last year than in 2010, the agency reported.

Law enforcement officials encourage the public to call 911 to report drivers who may be under the influence.

Organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving encourage partygoers who plan to consume alcohol to designate a sober driver before the celebrations begin. Hosts should stop serving alcohol at least 90 minutes before the party ends.

Other safe-driving options include:

• AAA Tipsy Tow, which offers a free one-way tow for a driver and vehicle over a distance of up to seven miles. The service, sponsored by the Auto Club of Southern California, is available from 6 p.m. Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday. Call (800) 400-4222 for more information.

• Be my DD (Designated Driver) allows customers to book a professional driver in advance to drop them off or pick them up from a desired location. The drivers use the customer’s own car. Call (877) 823-6933 or go to bemydd.com to make a reservation.